Whether you like them fresh or fried, there is no better way to embrace your Midwestern-ness than with a cheese curd or two (or 15). When you’ve got a craving for warm, gooey cheese in a crispy shell — or the fresh variety that squeaks when you bite it — these are the places to dig in.

Wildwood Smokehouse and Saloon

4919 Walleye Drive SE, Iowa City

Information: 338-2211

Wildwood Smokehouse and Saloon serves a range of yummy appetizers, but we can’t get enough of the Brew City White Cheddar Nuggets ($7.99). Start your meal off with a basket of these Wisconsin cheese curds tossed in batter and deep fried to golden, crispy perfection. Your taste buds — and tummy — will thank you for each bite.

Clinton Street Social Club

18˝ S. Clinton St., Iowa City

Information: 351-1690

Clinton Street Social Club Owner Brian Vogel said it’s easy to taste the difference between factory-made, frozen cheese curds and the housemade variety served at his restaurant. The House Battered Curds ($6.50) are made with fresh, regional cheese drenched in a light batter and deep fried. Each mouthwatering order is served with housemade garlic dill buttermilk dressing. “They have been incredibly popular,” Vogel said. “... They are easily one of our best-selling items.”

Kalona Cheese Factory

2206 540th St. SW, Kalona

Information: 656-2776

When you make a trip to Twin County Dairy near Kalona, you get a taste of the freshest cheese curds money can buy, along with a glimpse into the cheese-making process. Biting into each fresh, squeaky cheese curd ($4.50/pound) will make the drive into the country — where you’re likely to see a horse-drawn buggy or two — completely justified.